Abstract

In this project, the advantages of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Virtuality (AV) are utilized to create an immersive travel experience for older adults. The existing Virtual Reality travel application GeoTravel was updated to incorporate VR design guidelines for seniors derived from current research. A realistic virtual avatar was integrated to represent users in the virtual environment, offering better social interaction cues. 360-degree videos with synchronized audio were utilized to achieve higher perceptual realism compared to static 360-degree images. To simulate real-world interactions that improve the feeling of presence, three AV objects — a water bottle, a camera, and a smartphone — are supported. Users can manipulate these objects in the real-world and observe their corresponding virtual counterparts performing the executed actions in the virtual environment. Due to an increase in COVID-19 and other viral cases, it was not possible to test the usability of the application with older adults. A user study with 17 students was conducted instead, asking the participants to evaluate the application from the perspective of a senior. Results showed "Good" (SUS) usability, however, an actual evaluation with the target group is still necessary.

Results/Implementation/Project Description

Conclusion

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